Which hazard class is associated with causing genetic mutations?

• A. Carcinogens
• B. Reproductive Toxicants
• C. Mutagens
• D. Sensitizer

Answer: (C)

Genetic mutations occur when the DNA sequence is altered, and mutagens are the agents that increase the rate at which these changes happen. They can be chemicals that modify bases, cause substitutions or insertions, or physical factors like radiation that break DNA strands. This hazard class is defined by its direct impact on genetic material, making it the cause of mutations. While some mutagens can also be linked to cancer, the essential idea here is that mutagens drive genetic mutations; other hazards describe different effects—carcinogens relate to cancer risk, reproductive toxicants affect fertility and development, and sensitizers provoke immune responses.